As far as fascinating museums go, the ESSE Purse Museum has got it in the bag! A rare find, it’s one of only a few museums in the world that’s dedicated to purses. Its uniqueness is just one reason to visit, though. You’ll find 500+ reasons inside. (Yes, that’s right; the museum houses more than 500 artifacts!)

The ESSE Purse Museum is in the fabulously fun and funky SoMa district of Little Rock. There are only three brick-and-mortar purse museums in the world.
Kenneth R/TripAdvisor
There’s one in Amsterdam, one in Seoul, and, since 2013, one in Little Rock.
Crystal Z/Google
Wowing visitors since day one (and rightfully so), the museum houses over 500 artifacts!
Reva Prescott/TripAdvisor
The purses are organized by decade, offering visitors a fashion history lesson like no other.
ESSE Purse Museum & Store/Google

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But the museum is about more than fashion.
ESSE Purse Museum & Store/Google
Its informative exhibits tell the story of the 20th century woman – decade by decade – through the bags she carried and the contents commonly stored inside.
Nikki Testone/Google
The displays are further complemented by photos, accessories, and more.
tyler paris/Google
You can do more than admire purses at the museum, though.
Amber Rich/Google
Thanks to an attached retail store, you can buy some bags, too!
ESSE Purse Museum & Store/Google

 

Well, what do you think? Are you ready to pay a visit to one of Arkansas’ most fascinating hidden gems? Remember, the ESSE Purse Museum is open Tuesday – Sunday and by appointment on Monday. For more information, call the ESSE Purse Museum at (501) 916-9022. You can also visit the museum’s website or Facebook page.

So, did you know about this fascinating museum? Ever visited? If so, what’d you think? Know of another lesser-known museum? Tell us!

This is easily one of the best museums in Arkansas, but it’s not the only worthwhile museum in the state. Click here to read about eight museums that are too weird for words.

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Esse Purse Museum & Store, 1510 Main St, Little Rock, AR 72202, USA